2013 Election: Gregory Abbott, Woodridge Mayoral Race

Campaign Info

• Position sought: Woodridge mayor
• Phone: 312-968-7777
• E-mail: g.abbott@sbcglobal.net
• Website: www.abbottformayor.com 

Personal Info

• Family: Spouse, Diane Abbott; Children Brett (11), Sean (9) and Gabriella (6)
• Education: U. of Notre Dame, Bachelor of Arts 1985U. of Notre Dame, Juris Doctor degree 1988
• Occupation: Self employed, Gregory J. Abbott, Attorney at Law

Candidate Questions

What is the primary reason you are running for this office?

I am running for Mayor because I want to contribute and help make Woodridge a great place to live. Woodridge, like many towns, is facing significant financial challenges that will not be going away.  

For too long, government’s answer has been to simply raise property taxes. I want to help make government more efficient so that the Village can continue to deliver core services at the highest level without raising taxes.

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?

My main priority will be to reduce property taxes without compromising excellent public service. I will focus on delivering excellent core services such as police and infrastructure in a more efficient way.

In the last 30 years, businesses have learned to make changes to reduce costs and be more efficient.  Woodridge needs to do the same. The days of consistently raising taxes to fund inefficient government need to end.

If your race is contested, what sets you apart from the other candidates?

I am the only candidate for Mayor that has experience as Trustee and a record of fighting tax increases. In order to be an effective Mayor from day 1, it is essential to have experience in Village government and have knowledge of the budget. You can’t improve what you don’t understand.  

Also, I am the only candidate with a track record of fighting for the taxpayers. The last two budgets have increased spending and raised taxes. I have voted against both budgets.

What do you think are the top 3 goals for the Village of Woodridge? 

1. Reduce property taxes

2. Keep our neighborhoods safe and our infrastructure well maintained.

3. Create more oportunities for resident input into Village government.

What are some ways to promote economic development in the village? 

1.  Make sure we publicize our geographical advantages of being close to all forms of transportation.

2.  Make it easier for new businesses to locate here by sheperding them through the process of starting or relocating a business here.

3.  Create a Business Advisory Board comprised of Woodridge businesses that will let the Mayor, Board of Trustees and staff know what we can do to help local businesses grow and prosper.

Are there any new services or programs Woodridge should try to offer? 

As Mayor, I would create Citizen Advisory Boards which would report to the Mayor, Board and staff and give us their perspective on the needs of residents and how the Village can better serve those needs. I would begin with boards for Businesses, Seniors, and a board to make suggestions on how government can be more efficient and cost effective.